Strong tribal graphics on a rare rug. It offers a glimpse into the intricacy and skill of the old weaving traditions. The quality shows first in the wool, hand-spun and polished with age, velvet to the touch. Skill shows again in the knots, tight and small, a mix of Berber and single so the motif appears etched, deep brown in a shimmering cream field. Despite a busy design, the natural palette and deep pile keep it elegant. Decades of use have softened its formal geometry though a seriousness remains in its symmetry, complexity, and key patterned selvedges. Dated 1951 with an illegible inscription that looks to be the Berber word for “rug” in Arabic script.  

MATERIAL – Wool

DIMENSIONS – 10’2” by 6’3”  (measurement without fringe) 

ORIGIN – Vintage Beni Ourain, Middle Atlas

Shown with Fes pouf in deep orange.